Automakers know that playing into nostalgia sells cars. British car manufacturer Caterham Cars is continuing its trend of paying homage to its classic heritage with the new 70s throwback Super Seven 1600. This new release follows the success of the limited 60s styled edition a few years prior. This time though, the Super Seven is here to stay. 

The Super Seven isn’t about practicality, technology, or even safety: it’s a total joy ride. This car is about taking you from Point A to Point B in the most exhilarating way possible. The Super Seven is designed for car enthusiasts who enjoyed building toy car kits and do-it-yourself car constructions growing up. The Super Seven can only be imported to the U.S. in kit form, while customers in the UK have the option to purchase in kit form or have it completely assembled by the manufacturer.

More lightness, more fun

So, if you’re looking for a fun ride that’s both excessive and simplistic, then the Super Seven 1600 might just be the car for you. It exudes 70s style glitz and glamour along with a DCOE throttle body injection. 

The vehicle is atop 14-inch  alloy wheels with Avon ZT5 tires and you can customize the vehicle from 30 available throwback paint colors including vintage green, ballistic orange, and viper blue. The two-seater’s interior also features old-school style and is available in an array of different fabric options. The wood-rimmed steering wheel is also a nice touch. 

Retro styling

The Super Seven also features the retro elements like the charismatic flared front wings and spare wheel, and carrier. The vehicle comes in five versions: the Seven 270,  Seven 310, Seven 360, Seven 420, and the Seven 620. The starting price of this throwback is $37,900.

As for as mechanics go, the Super Seven boasts of no-frills and no driving aids for a “raw” driving experience. The Super Seven conveys Caterham’s “less is more” mantra and is the polar opposite of what we’ve come to expect from new cars today. There’s no power steering, no brake assist technology, and it won’t alert you about oncoming traffic. The real payoffs come from its fast steering capabilities and smooth and responsive engine that roars along with you as you drive.

Engine Options

The standard Seven 270 is motorized by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder Ford Sigma engine that generates a 135-horsepower and 121 lb-ft of torque. The premium Seven 620 has a 2.0-liter Ford Duratec engine that can reach a top speed of  129 mph. In general, the Super Seven is lighter than most cars on the market with a total weight of 1,246 pounds. Although simplistic, the Super Seven is the most powerful generation yet. 

Keep it simple

For the most part, the Super Seven stays true to the simplicity of the 70s but does include updated features like the larger and wider available chassis in both the Seven 310 and Seven 360 versions. You can also opt for the high-intensity lights plus LED daytime running lights.

Overall, the Super Seven is a refreshing option for those looking to get back to the basics of a classic car era without the technical disadvantages.